There has been widespread disgust expressed in Trinidad and Tobago at the desecration of the grave of cultural icon Black Stalin just a week after his burial on January 5. The five-time Calypso Monarch was accorded a fitting farewell by all sections of T&T Society in line with his monumental contribution not only to calypso but to cultural and social progress in the twin island nation.
But within a week his well-decorated grave, with a symbolic wreath adorning his coffin, was sadly found desecrated. According to the T&T NEWSDAY newspaper, his grave was desecrated twice with drug syringes, feces and a dirty crown, which led to suspicions of the crazy activity of drug peddlers, very prevalent in Trinidadian society.
As outrage grew in society, the Blackman’s family had to dignify the situation. His widow, “Tanty Patsy,” declined to make any angry comments, calmly saying, “God bless you, nobody curses.” Stalin’s nephew Black responded by organizing a group competing in the Panorama Junior competition, keeping the cultural tradition alive.
There is now much discussion about the need to ensure that such cemeteries are protected from desecration.
RELATED: Calypsonian Society head: Black Stalin was a voice for the oppressed
